By LawalAbdulMalik-
An outstanding Nigerian news anchor tragically died after leaping three stories from her apartment in a desperate attempt to escape a horrific armed robbery, according to police and reports.
Somtochukwu “Sommie” Maduagwu, 29- a well loved reporter and producer at Arise News Channel- was found unconscious by police outside her three-story apartment building in the capital of Abuja after robbers broke into her property on Monday morning, the Federal Capital Territory Police Command announced. The TV host was subsequently rushed to a local hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries.
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Residents of the complex where the news anchor lived had called the police whilst the armed robbers were still present, but the cops took far long to arrive. By the time of their arrival, the armed robbers had fled the scene, and the damage had been done.
FCT Commissioner Ajao Adewale said he immediately launched an investigation into the “cruel and senseless” break-in, deploying intelligence and operational assets to identify and track the armed thugs.
He told local media that police responded to Unique Apartments, a twin building with 18 units, where the “hoodlums” shot one of two security guards before “specifically” storming into Maduagwu’s home. The robbers remain at large. It is not known whether her property had CCTV camera’s, although the general assumption is that it did not.
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Her heartbroken colleagues shared the tragic news on social media, remembering the “cherished” anchor for her boundless spirit and passion.
“Sommie, 29, was not only a cherished member of the ARISE News family but also a vibrant voice that engaged and connected with our viewers,” the West African news station posted on Instagram, adding that she was also an accomplished lawyer and a devoted friend and colleague.
“We extend our deepest condolences to Sommie’s parents, siblings, extended family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time. Sommie’s voice is now silent but her spirit, passion and legacy will endure as part of our collective memory. “We remain in shock and call for a speedy investigation, apprehension and prosecution of the culprits.”
President Tinubu extended his condolences to Maduagwu’s family, the management, and staff of Arise News Television, as well as the entire Nigerian media fraternity over this loss, calling her a promising journalist whose life was cut short in a cruel and condemnable manner.
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